Clinical Practice Guidelines on PSA Testing

In partnership with Cancer Council Australia and a multi-disciplinary expert advisory panel comprising urologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, general practitioners, medical oncologists, epidemiologists, allied health professionals and consumers, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia has developed national evidence-based clinical practice guidelines on PSA testing and early management of test-detected prostate cancer.

The guideline recommendations have now been approved by the CEO of the National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia's leading expert body for developing health advice for the Australian community, health professionals and governments.

We developed the guidelines in order to resolve the controversy surrounding PSA testing for both men and their doctors. The guidelines do not recommend a population screening program for prostate cancer (a program that offers testing to all men of a certain age group) as evidence does not support such a program. For men who decide to be tested it contains guidance on matters such as what age to start testing; how frequently to be tested; when to stop testing; the PSA level which should prompt further investigation; family history; and the role of the digital rectal examination.

PCFA acknowledges The Male Bag Ride as the major fundraising partner of the guidelines.

The guidelines are dedicated to the memory of Dr Ian Roos OAM, who passed away on 10 April 2015 after a long battle with prostate cancer. Ian was a scholar, scientist, administrator, educator, guide, philosopher and friend of Cancer Council Australia and Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. His work as a consumer representative, patient advocate and policy advisor, since his diagnosis with an aggressive prostate cancer 16 years ago, set him apart. Dr Roos will be greatly missed.